An open green space in the heart of downtown Buffalo, Lafayette Square was established as part of Joseph Ellicott?s 1804 city plan. It became an important focal point for the city, hosting public meetings and fairs, and was chosen as the site for the Soldiers? and Sailors? Monument following the Civil War. Then-Mayor, and future President, Grover Cleveland laid the cornerstone of the 85-foot granite monument in a ceremony on July 4, 1882.
